Greyhound Racing NSW (GRNSW) is today announcing financial and wellbeing support and assistance packages for participants following the industry's Racing Optimisation program.
Late last year GRNSW announced that racing would cease at a number of locations across the State as part of rationalisation within the NSW industry.
Among those scheduled closures were Muswellbrook and Broken Hill by June 30, 2026 and Wagga Wagga in the following 12 months after upgrades were completed at nearby Temora.
GRNSW recognises the impact these changes may have on participants and will ensure participants have full access to the mental health and wellbeing services available through GRNSW's partnership with Sonder, a 24/7 wellbeing and safety support service, and the availability of the organisation's Participant Welfare Officer, George Zaiter.
Chief Executive Officer of GRNSW, Steve Griffin, said the organisation was committed to ensuring that the industry continues to move forward responsibly while supporting those most affected.
"We are very aware that changes to the racing footprint can create uncertainty and practical challenges for participants," Mr Griffin said.
"Our focus is to ensure that everyone impacted receives appropriate support and that the welfare of greyhounds and our participants remains at the centre of every decision we make.
"Supporting participants through periods of change is critical to maintaining confidence in the industry and ensuring its future strength.
"The industry in NSW is evolving, and our responsibility is to ensure that it remains sustainable, responsible and focused on the welfare of the greyhound."
Unlike the other jurisdictions around the State, GRNSW acknowledged that the remoteness of Broken Hill presented unique challenges for participants.
Due to its location in the Far West of the NSW, hundreds of kilometres from the nearest major racing centres, Broken Hill faces significant logistical barriers for trainers and owners wishing to continue racing.
Having taken all the factors into consideration, GRNSW will introduce a dedicated financial support framework for participants in the Broken Hill region to assist with the transition created by these changes.
The initiative is designed to help ensure that both the welfare of the greyhounds and the wellbeing of local participants, remain a priority during this period of industry adjustment.
The support program will assist Broken Hill participants who are transitioning greyhounds either to retirement or to new training arrangements where they can continue racing in other regions.
GRNSW will continue to engage directly with Broken Hill participants over the coming months to ensure they are aware of available support measures and welfare pathways for their greyhounds.
